RESOURCE REVIEWS: ALTERNATIVE WORSHIP

Group, May/Jun 2004 by Case, Steve

ALTERNATIVE WORSHIP

WHAT IT IS: Jonny Baker and Doug Gay, with Jenny Brown, have compiled a book and a CD-ROM filled with liturgies, prayers, music, video, and images to create transforming worship experiences.

THE SCOOP: This absolutely amazing and essential tool is a treasure chest of worship ideas from the minds that brought you Group Publishing's The Prayer Path. Arranged around seasonal themes, the book presents resources and rituals for Advent and Christmas, Lent, Easter, and Pentecost. The introduction offers an explanation of alternative worship, the history of liturgy, the purpose of ritual, and an assurance that sometimes it's okay to dance when you pray. (I wish the section on the purpose and history of liturgy was longer.) The companion CD-ROM provides a wealth of images, video loops, and cool music that can add power to worship or serve as the focus of meditation. We are teaching a generation of young people who are starving for God-connecting experiences. This book will help you give it to them.

COST: $24.99 I

AVAILABLE FROM: Baker Book House, 800-877-2665, (616) 676-9185.

Reviewer STEVE CASE is a contributing editor to group Magazine. He has 15 years of youth ministry experience.